Concepts & Explanations

Multilayer networks capture systems where entities interact through multiple types of relationships simultaneously. This section explains the theory behind multilayer networks and how py3plex implements them.

What’s in this section:

• Multilayer Networks 101 — Types (multiplex, heterogeneous, temporal) and when to use them

• The py3plex Core Model — Node-layer pairs, supra-adjacency matrix, NetworkX integration

• Design Principles — Why py3plex works the way it does

• Algorithm Landscape — Overview of available algorithms

Reading Paths:

• New to multilayer networks? Start with Multilayer Networks 101 for essential concepts, then The py3plex Core Model to see how py3plex represents them. This foundation is crucial before using the library.

• Coming from NetworkX? Read The py3plex Core Model to understand the node-layer pair abstraction and supra-adjacency matrix, then Design Principles for design decisions. Skip the theory in 101 if you’re familiar with complex networks.

• Building expertise? Read all chapters in order: theory (Multilayer Networks 101), implementation (The py3plex Core Model), design rationale (Design Principles), and available tools (Algorithm Landscape).

After Reading This Section

You’ll be able to:

• Model real-world systems as multilayer networks

• Choose appropriate parameters (e.g., inter-layer coupling strength)

• Interpret results correctly

• Avoid common pitfalls (e.g., flattening important structure)

Tip

Quick check: After reading this section, you should be able to answer:

• What’s the difference between multiplex and heterogeneous networks?

• What does the supra-adjacency matrix represent?

• When should you use high vs. low inter-layer coupling?

Relation to Other Sections:

• Overview (Overview) — Quick 2-minute intro to multilayer networks

• How-to Guides (How-to Guides) — Apply these concepts in practice

• Reference (API & DSL Reference) — Detailed API and algorithm documentation

• Examples (Examples & Recipes) — See concepts in action with real code

Jump to Practical Applications:

Once you understand the concepts:

• Load networks: How to Load and Build Networks

• Compute statistics: How to Compute Network Statistics

• Detect communities: How to Run Community Detection on Multilayer Networks

• Query networks: How to Query Multilayer Graphs with the SQL-like DSL